Back to school tips!! again- we start tomorrow!!

Well as I am typing, I am sure many of you are playing out what is going to happen tomorrow, with the start of the new school year. As I  have a son in the  house who is going to Grade 7, which means new school, and numerous new transitions, the anxiety is getting up there. As we pack and repack the backpack..which weighs half his body weight-and we ponder over which erasers and how many pencils  he needs, as well as the map for the school...I realize we may all need to get grounded somewhat. This is going to be a busy, hectic week, so I hope you all take a deep breath today, and tomorrow morning, and get through the week. We are as prepared as we can be, and in conversation with many officials at the schools already, they are as well, for our sons & daughters. I found this article, from 'reading rockets' that had good tips in it to put into perspective, what we can do to be as organized and supportive as possible. Remember we are a network of parents, family members, support persons & friends. If you need help we are here, and we got your back. Reach out, ask a question- or two- take care of yourselves! All the best this week. 

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A new school year means a new grade, new teachers, new goals, and maybe even a new school! In order to help you and your child with special needs be as successful as you can be, we've put together a list of eight helpful back-to-school tips that we hope will make the transition into a new school year a little easier for you and your child.

Organize all that paperwork

In the world of special education, there are lots of meetings, paperwork, and documentation to keep track of. Try to keep a family calendar of school events, special education meetings, conferences, etc. Setting up a binder or folder to keep your child's special education documentation, meeting notices, and IEPs in sequential order can also help you stay organized.

Start a communication log

Keeping track of all phone calls, e-mails, notes home, meetings, and conferences is important. Create a "communication log" for yourself in a notebook that is easily accessible. Be sure to note the dates, times, and nature of the communications you have.

Review your child's current IEP

The IEP is the cornerstone of your child's educational program, so it's important that you have a clear understanding of it. Note when the IEP expires and if your child is up for reevaluation this year. Most importantly, be sure that this IEP still "fits" your child's needs! If you're unsure, contact the school about holding an IEP review meeting.

Relieve back-to-school jitters

Just talking about the upcoming year and changes can help reduce some of that back-to-school anxiety! Talk to your child about exciting new classes, activities, and events that they can participate in during the new school year. If attending a new school, try to schedule a visit before the first day. With older students, it is sometimes helpful to explain the services and accommodations in their IEP so that they know what to expect when school begins.

Keep everyone informed

It's important that you and the school communicate early and often! If there is anything (concerns, changes, questions about the IEP) that you feel is important to share with the staff working with your child before school starts, or during the year, don't hesitate to contact them! The more proactive and honest you are, the better the school staff will be able to meet your child's needs.

Establish before and after school routines

Discuss and plan the changes in you and your child's daily routine that will happen once school starts. You can even begin practicing your new schedule, focusing on morning and evening routines, and begin implementing them well in advance of the first day of school.

Stay up-to-date on special education news

Being knowledgeable about your child's IEP and their disability can help you become a better advocate for your child. Try to keep up-to-date on new special education legislation, news, and events. The more you know, the more prepared you will be to navigate the world of special education and successfully advocate for your child!

Attend school events

Take advantage of Open House, Back-to-School Night, and parent-teacher conferences to help you and your child get a feel for the school and meet the teachers, other staff, students, and families. Share the positives about working with your child, and let the teacher know about changes, events, or IEP concerns that should be considered for children in special education.

ttp://www.readingrockets.org/article/back-school-tips-parents-children-special-needs